When does ‘American Idol’ return? Season 23 premiere date, cast, where to watch new episodes
Amaris Encinas
The reality singing competition that helped launch Kelly Clarkson‘s career returns for its 23rd season next month.
“American Idol” is back for another season of starry-eyed musicians vying for a chance to make their dreams come true.
Some of the world’s most iconic singers, including Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert, got their start on “American Idol,” which first premiered in 2002. Underwood, who was crowned the winner of Idol’s Season 4, will join superstar judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan this season.
“20 years ago I auditioned for the judges of @americanidol, and today I am now one of those judges searching for someone who wants to BE AN IDOL!” Underwood wrote in an August social media post. “It all starts with an audition…will we #CUonIDOL? us.”
Here’s what to know about Season 23 of “American Idol,” including when it’s slated to return.
Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
When does ‘American Idol’ start? Season 23 premiere date
Season 23 of “American Idol” premieres Sunday, March 9 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
‘American Idol’ judges, host
Long-time judges Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan are joined by Carrie Underwood this season.
The “Before He Cheats” singer is taking over for Katy Perry, who revealed she was leaving the show to focus on music. Underwood, an “American Idol” alum, returns to the show about 20 years after she won the competitive singing competition.
Ryan Seacrest, who has hosted 20 seasons of “American Idol,” will once again serve as MC.
And Grammy-nominated singer Jelly Roll will serve as a first-ever artist in residence. He will work closely with contestants, giving them firsthand advice on how to “navigate the journey,” as Variety first reported.
‘American Idol’ Season 23 trailer
How to watch ‘American Idol’ Season 23
“American Idol” airs Sunday nights on ABC with episodes available to stream on Hulu the next day. Viewers may also catch the show live on the ABC app or website along with live-streaming sites that allow viewers to watch in real-time.
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Contributing: Anthony Robledo and Saman Shafiq, USA TODAY
